A Knotless Suture Anchor: Technique for use in arthroscopic Bankart repair

Arthroscopic Bankart repair performed using suture anchors most closely mimics open repair techniques. One of the challenges with the arthroscopic technique is tying consistent, good-quality arthroscopic knots. The unique Knotless Suture Anchor (Mitek Products, Westwood, MA) and method of use for arthroscopic Bankart repair is described. The Knotless Suture Anchor has a short loop of suture secured to the tail end of the anchor. A channel is located at the tip of the anchor that functions to capture the loop of suture after it has been passed through the ligament. The ligament is tensioned as the anchor is inserted into bone to the appropriate depth. The doubled suture configuration that is created with the loop increases the suture strength in the Knotless Suture Anchor compared with standard suture anchors with the same size suture. To my knowledge, this article describes the first knotless suture anchor. A secure, low-profile repair can be created without arthroscopic knot tying.